NORTHVALE, NJ, September 17, 2014 – Inrad Optics, a leading US-based manufacturer of crystalline materials, optical components and photonic devices, announced today that it has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III contract from the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) of the US Department of Homeland Security to support continued development of neutron detection materials. After successfully demonstrating commercialization of stilbene scintillators in Phase II, Inrad Optics is now focused on reducing costs and expanding format sizes during the Phase III effort.
The detection of neutrons is a critical capability for the monitoring of special nuclear materials in security applications, as well as applications in research and radiation protection. The organic crystalline material stilbene has been shown to be well suited for neutron detection but has not been fully deployed in its many applications due to limited commercial availability. The Phase III contract is a continuation of work dating back to 2011, and is part of an on-going collaborative effort with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for large-scale production of stilbene.
Inrad Optics CEO Amy Eskilson commented on the Phase III award, stating “Our continued commitment to novel materials research and product development provides compelling value to industry for critical applications such as nuclear detection.”
This work has been supported by the US Department of Homeland Security, Domestic Nuclear Detection Office, under competitively awarded contract HSHQDC-14-C-00067. This support does not constitute an express or implied endorsement on the part of the Government.About Inrad Optics
Inrad Optics is a manufacturer of exceptional quality crystalline materials and devices, fabricated high precision glass, and metal optical components. Originally founded as Interactive Radiation in 1973, Inrad Optics is a globally recognized brand of optical solutions. Vertically integrated, manufacturing expertise includes solution and high temperature crystal growth, extensive optical fabrication capabilities,including precision diamond turning and the handling of large substrates, optical coatings and extensive in-process metrology.